STAY SMART ON SOUTH AFRICA’S ROADS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

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By: Lethabo Mkhize

It’s that time of the year again! The festive season is here, bringing with it packed suitcases, road trips, and the excitement of reuniting with loved ones. But while South Africa’s roads bustle with holiday cheer, they also bring increased risks. Road safety isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. With traffic volumes skyrocketing, it’s critical to prepare, stay vigilant, and drive responsibly.

 

  1. Prepping for the Journey: Think Ahead, Drive Smart

Before hitting the road, take some time to prepare. Too often, accidents result from overlooked basics.

 

  • Give Your Car a Festive Checkup: Think of it as a holiday gift for your vehicle. Inspect the tyres, brakes, wipers, and lights. If you’re overdue for a service, book it now. Skipping this step could leave you stranded—or worse.
  • Plan the Route Like a Pro: Avoid the pitfalls of an unplanned journey. Use navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze to identify traffic hotspots, construction zones, or tricky border crossings if you’re venturing beyond South Africa. Knowing what lies ahead can save you time—and frustration.
  • Pack Like a Safety Guru: Prepare for any eventuality by including safety essentials in your travel kit. Beyond the usual snacks,  include a first-aid kit, jumper cables, flashlight, reflective triangle, and portable phone charger. And yes, carry extra water and a blanket in case of unexpected delays on the road.
  1. Rest, Refresh, and Repeat

Driver fatigue is a silent killer, especially during long-haul trips.

  • Get Some Sleep: Driving while sleep-deprived and relying on an energy drink to get you through is a recipe for disaster. . Begin your journey fully rested, so you’re alert and prepared. .
  • Break the Trip: For every two hours of driving, take a 15-minute break. Stretch, hydrate, and grab a quick snack to keep your energy levels up.
  1. The Rules Are Not Suggestions: Stick to Them

While South Africa’s roads can sometimes feel unpredictable,  ignoring the rules puts everyone at risk.

  • Speed Limits Save Lives: That 120 km/h limit isn’t a challenge—it’s there for a reason. Adjust your speed based on the road and weather conditions.
  • No Drinking and Driving: This should go without saying, but the stats suggest otherwise. If you’re going to drink, use a rideshare app or designate a sober buddy.
  • Keep Your Phone Away: Texting while driving is like playing with fire, except you’re steering a two-ton vehicle. Hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.
  1. Prepare for Festive Chaos on the Roads

The roads get hectic this time of year. Here’s how to keep your cool:

  • Drive Defensively: Assume that the car next to you might do something reckless. Maintain a safe following distance and be ready to react.
  • Watch for Pedestrians: Festivities often spill into the streets. Be mindful of jaywalkers, cyclists, and excited children near busy intersections.
  • Expect Congestion: Festive traffic is a reality. Blasting your favourite holiday playlist might make the gridlock bearable. Aggressive driving won’t.
  1. Special Scenarios: Be Extra Cautious

Some travel situations call for heightened attention:

  • Long-Distance Journeys: Break them into manageable segments. Overworking yourself isn’t heroic—it’s dangerous.
  • Border Crossings: If you’re traveling into neighbouring countries, ensure your documents are in order. Border delays during December can test your patience.
  • Rain and Fog: Summer storms are unpredictable. Drive slower, turn on your lights, and stay calm. Don’t forget to switch on your hazards if visibility drops.
  1. Emergency? Be Ready to Respond

Breakdowns or accidents can happen to anyone, no matter how prepared.

  • Roadside Assistance is Your Friend: Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) is a great resource.
  • Stay Visible: If you’re stranded, use your hazards and place reflective triangles to warn oncoming traffic. Stay in your vehicle if you’re on a busy highway.

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